PhilMech, RCEF Mechanization unveils first RPS III in the Philippines
The Provincial Local Government of Lanao del Norte recently obtained and inaugurated the country’s first Rice Processing System III from the RCEF Mechanization Program. The system includes a state-of-the-art multi-stage rice mill with a capacity of 4-5 tons per hour, valued at Php60.5 million, and 3 units of recirculating dryers (12-tonner) valued at Php12.1 million.
The inauguration of these facilities took place during the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Norte on June 29 at MCC Gymnasium, Sagadan Tubod, Lanao del Norte.
The postharvest facilities are located at PNSF, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, and they feature various equipment including a pre-cleaner, de-stoner, huller, mist polisher, length grader, color sorter, blending tank, automatic packing machine for milled rice, rice hull bin, dust collection system, and an air-conditioned control room for the rice mill.
The facilities also include two heating system-stainless built, a generator set, tools, and other accessories for the dryer. These facilities are expected to benefit 15,000 farmers from the province, covering 22,663 hectares of land for rice production. In addition, 10 units of four-wheel drive tractors with rotavators, PTO-driven disc plows, and front loaders were distributed to qualified FCAs from the municipalities of Baroy, Kapatagan, Lala, Sapad, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo, with a total worth of Php23 million.
The event was attended by various officials including PHilMech Director for Research, Development, and Extension Dr. Nelson Santiago, Mindanao A Cluster Head Engr. Edgar Testa, DA-RFO X Executive Director Dr. Jose Apollo Pacamalan, DTI 10 Director Ruel Paclipan, BFAR 10 Directors Edward Yasay and Isidro Velayo, BSWM Director IV Dr. Gina Nilo, Lanao del Norte Governor Hon. Imelda Dimaporo, Former Governor Abdullah Dimaporo, and a representative from the Office of Senator Cynthia Villar, Ms. Edna Jangao, along with local government unit representatives. (FB, DA-PhilMech, July 3, 2024)
